When preparation meets opportunity, excellence follows.
Wilson Talent Center students delivered an outstanding performance at the Region 1 SkillsUSA competition held at Lansing Community College’s West Campus—earning top placements across multiple programs and advancing an impressive group of students to the state competition in April.
Criminal Justice
Criminal Justice students demonstrated exceptional professionalism and skill in the Job Skills Demo categories. In the Open division, students swept the competition, earning 1st through 3rd place finishes. In Job Skills Demo A, students captured both 2nd and 3rd place.
All advancing students will move on to represent WTC at the state level under the leadership of instructor Noel Garcia Jr.
Welding Technology
Welding students also made a powerful showing, with five students advancing to state competition. Top finishes included first-place honors in SMAW and OAC, along with additional podium placements in OAC and GMAW.
Several additional students placed fourth in their categories—just narrowly missing advancement. Congratulations to instructor Nick Good and Craig Barnes for preparing students to compete at such a high level.
Construction Trades
And the momentum didn’t stop there. Five Construction Trades students are advancing to state competition as well, earning top placements in Carpentry, Plumbing, and Electrical. Four additional students placed in the top eight in their respective categories.
Instructor Jerry Johnson and Keith Cox continue to build a culture of excellence that shows in competition results.
Across programs, one theme stands out: these students are not just learning—they are mastering their craft.
SkillsUSA competitions test technical ability, precision, professionalism, and confidence under pressure. Advancing to the state level is a testament to the quality of instruction, the rigor of the programs, and the dedication of the students.
Wilson Talent Center will be strongly represented this April—and the entire service area has reason to be proud.
Because when students compete at this level, they’re not just earning medals.
They’re building futures.
Recent Stories:
Students in Wilson Talent Center’s Educational Careers program recently attended the Educators Rising Conference at Wayne State University, where they demonstrated their creativity and teaching skills through a variety of competitive events.
During a recent monitoring visit, the Michigan Department of Education’s Office of Special Education recognized the strength of Ingham County’s inclusive programs and the dedication of educators who support students with disabilities across the region.
